Football superstar George Best dies aged 59

Former Manchester United and Northern Ireland football star George Best has died in hospital.

In a statement from staff at west London's Cromwell Hospital, it was confirmed that the 59-year-old had died in intensive care at 12.55pm following "a long and very valiant fight" against illness.

A short time later, Best's family emerged to read out a statment. His son Calum spoke first.

He said: "My father has passed away. Not only have I lost my dad but we have all lost a wonderful man and I would like to take the time to thank Professor Williams and Dr Akeel (Alisa) and everyone here at the Cromwell Hospital for doing everything they can do, and all the well-wishers and friends and letters and flowers and emails - it all means so much to all of us."

Best`s sister Barbara McNarry then read a statement on behalf of her family. She said: "As you can imagine this is a very difficult time so you will understand if we are a bit emotional.

"First of all I would like to say on behalf of the family a huge thank you to everyone who has supported George and us though this traumatic time.

"In particular to Professor Williams and to Dr Akeel (Alisa) who have become firm friends as well as medical advisers to George.

"To the rest of the medical staff and particularly (those) from the Intensive Care Unit who have offered the most overwhelming support, especially over the last 24 hours. Words cannot describe to lengths to which they have gone to make this easy for the family.

"To the thousands upon thousands of people who have sent cards and emails - we have taken great comfort from them, especially during the long hours.

"And finally I would like to say a very special thank you to Phil Hughes who, over the last 25 years, has been to George nothing but a firm friend."

George Best was admitted to hospital at the beginning of October following a kidney infection. Several weeks later his condition worsened and it was revealed he was suffering internal bleeding.

Although he rallied slightly earlier this week, regaining consciousness for a time, his condition deteriorated markedly shortly afterwards.

(MB/SP)